Breast Cancer Genetics and Precision Medicine

Mark E. Burkard, MD, PhD, is a medical oncologist with a clinical focus on breast cancer.

His research combines cell, molecular, and computational biology, genomics, cutting-edge microscopy, and clinical sampling to study the signaling pathways that drive chromosomal instability in cancer.

Robert Lera, PhD, and Sierra Auleta look at images of chromosomes on a computer screen in Dr. Mark Burkard's lab

Chromosomal Instability, Adaptability, Resistance and Survival

Why do some people benefit from cancer treatment and others do not?

The Burkard research group and its extensive network of collaborators works to understand the mechanisms of chromosome segregation and how the continual re-shuffling of chromosomes during cell division (chromosomal instability, or CIN) drives cancer progression.

Through CIN, tumors become more genetically diverse and capable of adapting to changes in the human body. This adaptability can promote resistance to cancer treatment. The research team studies all aspects of CIN, from the smallest molecular details to the major influence it has on tumor evolution and the immune response, to identify areas to target for improved cancer treatment.

Dr. Burkard also leads patient-driven research, such as the Outliers study, which examines individuals who live long-term with incurable breast cancer and wonders if others can become extreme survivors, too.

Research Team

Emily Kaufman

Research Specialist

Robert Lera, PhD

Robert Lera, PhD

Associate Scientist

Research Assistant

Research Assistant

 

Research assistants Roshan Norman and Zhouyuan Shen talk in Dr. Burkard's lab
Join Us!

The Burkard Research Group is committed to an environment where positive regard, open communication, and constructive feedback will allow each of us to reach our highest potential. We welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds, identities, abilities, and experiences.

If you are interested in PhD training, Dr. Burkard is a faculty trainer for the Biophysics, Cancer Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Cell and Molecular Pathology, and Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology programs. Program trainees may rotate and join the lab. Please visit the Graduate School for details and application information.

If you are interested in joining as an undergraduate or postdoctoral fellow, email Dr. Burkard.

  • Undergraduates: include a resume and copy of your transcript
  • Postdoctoral fellows: include a CV and description of your research interests and relevant experience

Active Projects

Evolutionary Consequences and Clinical Significance of Chromosomal Instability (CIN)
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Cin genomics

Though CIN was identified in cancer over 130 years ago, we know surprisingly little how it contributes to cancer progression.

To address this, we are developing better methods to measure CIN in the clinic and investigating how CIN affects tumor evolution.

Our approaches to this project are multidisciplinary and include cell biology, computational biology, and single-cell genomics methods (left).

 

Mechanisms of Plk1 at the Mitotic Kinetochore
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Exm

The human kinetochore is a 100-nm structure that connects chromosomes to the mitotic spindle.

Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is essential for coordinating activities within the kinetochore to ensure accurate chromosome segregation.

We are combining biochemical techniques, proteomics, expansion microscopy, and genetic complementation to detail Plk1’s spatiotemporal distribution and activity within the kinetochore and centromere.

Mitotic Mechanisms of Taxane Sensitivity and Resistance in Patient-Derived Breast Cancer Models
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Organoid

Paclitaxel remains one of the most effective breast cancer treatments available, however, many individuals, particularly those with metastatic disease, are resistant to its benefit.

To address this, we are partnering with the Beth Weaver Lab to develop a “biobank” of breast cancer patient samples.

We are combining genomic analysis with lattice light-sheet live cell imaging to identify markers that may predict sensitivity or resistance to paclitaxel therapy.

 

Funding Support

The Burkard Research Group is funded by the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute, from More for Stage IV, and from donors who allow us to engage in new research opportunities with high impact potential.

closeup of a male scientist in white lab coat working in the lab

Help Us Transform Medicine

You can help support research by making a gift to the Department of Medicine's Excellence in Hematology/Oncology Fund.